5 New Year's Resolutions for Your Home

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

As a homeowner, you're always looking for creative ways to save. You might be strict about leaving lights on or maybe you're the type of person who is reluctant to use the furnace or the air conditioner. Whatever your style is, these tips can help you liven up your home while simultaneously cutting costs.

Tidy It Up

Do you have kids that need to learn a little responsibility? Try creating a weekly cleaning chart that gives each of them a responsibility in the maintenance of your home. De-cluttering and tidying things up will reduce allergens and make your home more enjoyable to live in.

Cut Your Costs 

While we specialize in reducing taxes, we also know a thing or two about cutting utility costs. Here are three things you can do in 2017 to reduce heating and water bills: 

• Turn your furnace down THREE degrees and utilize blankets or space heaters to compensate. This will save you close to 10% on your heating bills. 
• Upgrade to a low-flow shower head. They use close to 60% less water and they help the environment and your wallet. 
• Tune-up your furnace before it's too late. Most HVAC contractors offer this service to protect your heating system and make sure it is running efficiently. 

Spice It Up 

You can try making your home the people's choice for party home of the year in 2017. You can add things like surround sound speakers, a pool table and maybe even renovate if you're feeling extra ambitious.

Add Greenery

Indoor plants improve the look, feel and cleanliness of your home. Try purchasing an Aloe Vera plant and see if you can notice the difference in the indoor air quality. 

File a Grievance

The time to file in 2017 is running out and with the success we have had in the past, you can't afford not to file with P.T.R.C. Inc. If you want to reduce your Nassau or Suffolk County property taxes, visit our website and fill out an application!

These tips will help you save hundreds, but P.T.R.C. Inc. can help save you thousands! If you still have questions about the grievance process, visit us on the web or email us at info@ptrc.com. You can also reach us by calling 516/631-484-0654!

3 Good Reasons to File a Tax Grievance With P.T.R.C. Inc.

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

When it comes to Long Island property taxes, you can't afford to put your fate in the hands of an amateur. We pay some of the highest property taxes in the entire country, making it even more important to find a tax reduction service you can trust. For over 27 years, P.T.R.C. Inc. has been that company and we want to continue our success with you in the upcoming tax season. Here are THREE good, no GREAT reasons to file your grievance with P.T.R.C. Inc. this year.  

Pay for Success 

At P.T.R.C. Inc., we have a reason to give each individual case our undivided attention. We only get paid if your reduction is successful, so we will work with you every step of the way to ensure the best possible result. The other thing to keep in mind is that there is absolutely NO penalty for a failed reduction. You won't have to pay our team and the county will not raise your taxes because of your challenge. So.. what do you have to lose?

Sit Back and Relax 

Once you submit your application, we'll handle the process and you can relax knowing you are in good hands. If you live in Nassau County, we'll submit your application to the Assessment Review Commission (ARC) or for Suffolk residents, the Board of Assessment Review (BAR). We will then follow the application all the way through the appeals process with the Small Claims Assessment Review (SCAR) and we're confident that we will earn you a deduction. Just sit back, relax and let us handle it! 

Trust Our Experience

For over 27 years, P.T.R.C. Inc. has successfully handled over 230,000 assessment challenges. We have secured millions of dollars in reductions and we aren't stopping anytime soon. If you are still skeptical, we want you to answer this question-- who do you trust the with the big game on the line? A proven veteran, or an amateur who has never been there before? If you would choose the veteran, you need to file with P.T.R.C. Inc. today! 

If you're ready to get started, visit our website to access the Nassau and Suffolk County applications. Should you have any questions, feel free to contact us by calling 516/631-484-0654 or send an email to info@ptrc.com. 

Submit Your Signed Nassau AND Suffolk County Application Today!

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

The holiday season is in full swing and your to-do list is about as crowded as the beach on a sunny Sunday. It can certainly be nerve wracking, but your friends at P.T.R.C. Inc. have one more thing for you to tack on. If you live in Nassau or Suffolk County, you NEED to submit your tax reduction application today! It's not an overnight process, so the earlier you submit, the sooner we can get to work. The deadlines are as follows:

Nassau: March 1, 2017

Suffolk: May 16, 2017

Note: These applications are for the 2018/2019 tax year. In Nassau County, the process typically takes about 18-24 months or 12-18 months in Suffolk County. You will NOT see tax reductions in 2017 unless you filed last year. 

The good thing about working with P.T.R.C. Inc. is that we ONLY get paid if the reduction is successful. There is no qualifying fee or a fee for a lost case, so what do you have to lose? If we are granted a reduction by the board, we receive 50% of the property tax reduction payable after the official notification. We can afford to do this because we have had great success with reduction cases in our 26 years! 

Filing a tax grievance with P.T.R.C. Inc. is like stuffing the ballot. There are other reduction services out there, but our team gives you the best chance to succeed and our success leads directly to your savings. So we ask again... what are you waiting for? 

If you're ready to file now or early in 2017, head over to www.ptrc.com to download your application. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at 516/631- 484-0654 or email info@ptrc.com. 

Steps You Must Take NOW if You Want to Sell in 2017

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

Selling a home is a daunting task. It can be stressful, intimidating and overwhelming at times, but a game plan could help illuminate the path to a sale that you and your family are happy with. We have been in the real estate and tax industry for years, so take our advice and put these selling tips to use in 2017! 

Get Estimates

Think of it from a buyers perspective. Would you want to move into a new home and have to fix the furnace, stove and air conditioning unit? Probably not, and that is why you have to take these steps before you look to sell. You should call in your local HVAC contractor or plumber to do an inspection on the current state of your appliances. If they don't check out, you might want to update these on your own to gain an edge in negotiations.  

De-personalize 

If you have lived in a particular home for a substantial amount of time, it likely has your fingerprints all over it. It might be pictures you've hung or decor that is personal to you that might not work for someone else. Try and keep your home neutral during the selling process so any buyer could imagine themselves living there.

Channel Your Inner Picasso

The quickest and most cost efficient way to raise the value of your home is with paint. It makes the walls look like new and it brightens up a room that might have lost it's luster over the years. This is an absolute MUST.  

Update Landscaping 

Are you familiar with the expression; "You never get a second chance to make a first impression?" It is for this reason that landscaping is so important to the value of a home. When a buyer pulls up to your home, the first thing they see is the landscaping decor and that is their first judgement of your home. 

Scope the Neighborhood 

We spoke about this in our buying tips blog, but it is equally important for sellers. You should go to local open houses and see what they're asking and compare the condition of their home to your own. This will give you a better idea of whether or not you need to lower your asking price to attract more buyers.

If you're selling a home, that generally means that you are also in the market for a new one. When you do find a new home, it might come with new property taxes that you weren't expecting. If you feel they are unreasonable, contact P.T.R.C. Inc. and we will be glad to assist you!

To learn more about our tax reduction services, call 516/631- 484-0654 or email us at info@ptrc.com. 

Steps You Must Take NOW if You Want to Buy in 2017

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

The home buying experience can be stressful, exciting and exhausting all in the same breath. You've reached the point in your life where a home is what you want, but buying is no easy task. Luckily for you, we have been in the real estate and tax space for quite some time and we are going to share you on some of our favorite buying tips! 

Imagine Your Ideal Home

To help get a better idea of what you want, do some house hunting with no expectations first. You'll start to notice that there are things you like about certain properties and some things you like about others. After you've done your research, you should be able to communicate exactly what you're looking for to a real estate agent.

Set a Budget 

In traditional real estate, most homeowners plan to put down about 10% of the purchase price as a deposit. You'll have to plan for the closing costs as well, which are typically about 5% of the price of the property. With this in mind, you should start tracking your spending and see where there is room to save. Eating out less, holding off on clothes shopping and making sacrifices can lead you closer to your dream home! 

Don't Make Any Large Purchases 

If you're in the market for a new home, it is best to leave your credit score alone for the time being. You shouldn't be making any large purchases that could affect your score when it comes time to close.  

Find Your Agent 

The most important thing to remember when you are selecting a real estate agent is that this is YOUR agent. You want to find someone you can relate to and also someone that comes recommended. Ask around and see what your friends have to say about their experiences.

Scope the Neighborhood

The perfect home in the wrong neighborhood is never a good mix. If you don't love the neighborhood before you buy, it is likely that you'll regret the purchase later. The perfect home requires the perfect neighborhood and the more homes you see the more this will become apparent to you.  

Unfortunately, buying a home is only the tip of the iceberg. You'll have to learn how to maintain a home, clean a home and perform the day to day tasks that are required for a good homeowner. But when it comes time to pay your Long Island property taxes, you don't have to go at it alone.

To learn more about our property tax reduction services, call 516/631-484-0654 or visit us on the web!

Suffolk County Homeowners- The Time to File is Now

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

Do you live in Suffolk County and feel that your property taxes are simply too high? If the answer is yes, don't doubt yourself! There's a good chance that your taxes are unfair and through our service, we can help you reduce them to a reasonable level. 

Since 1990, our team at P.T.R.C. Inc. has been helping Long Island residents reduce their property taxes and the time has come for another year of success stories! If you're looking to reduce your property taxes for the 2018/19 tax year, the time to file a grievance is approaching. Your Suffolk County application can be found on our website and it is best to get a head start because the deadline to file is May 16th, 2017. 

How does it work? 

Good Question! Let's go through the process together: 

1. You submit your application and we will send you an email confirming that we have received it. 
2. Since you're a Suffolk County resident, we will submit your grievance to the Board of Assessment Review. Based on their decision, we will either accept the reduction or move on to the Small Claims Assessment Review (SCAR). 
3. Once we're successful, you will either receive your reduction on your tax bills or in the form of a refund check It's that simple! 

If you have any more questions about the Suffolk County tax grievance process, one of our experts would be glad to assist you. Call 631-484-0654 or email info@ptrc.com to learn more. And don't forget, the deadline is approaching fast and the time to file is now! 

Holiday Gift Ideas for the New Homeowner in Your Life

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

If there's a new homeowner in your life this holiday season, it can be difficult to pick out the perfect gift. You want to get them something practical that they can use, but you also want it to have that personal touch. Well lucky for you, these holiday gift ideas offer a little bit of both. 

Dart Board 

If the man of the house enjoys a gentleman's game, this is something he will appreciate. It is sure to bring enjoyment and it will help spice up their future friendly gatherings. But you might want to let him/her win their first game-- you don't want the board to get off on the wrong foot! 

Wine Glasses 

When someone goes through the stress of moving into a new home, it is often the little things that they forget. Things like dishes, silverware and wine glasses prove to be greatly appreciated, especially if someone is hosting a house warming party that they're under prepared for. If you have a gift for arts & crafts, you can even customize the glasses for a more personal feel. 

Holiday Decorations 

Moving during the holidays is about as hectic as it gets, and holiday decor is the last thing on a new homeowner's mind. Get them a personalized ornament for their first Christmas in their new home and your gift is sure to be featured year in and year out. 

Monogrammed Doormat 

Nothing says 'welcome to our new home' quite like a monogrammed doormat. It's simple and easy to order and once they finish all their renovations, it will be the cherry on top to signal their move is complete!

Family Portrait

The holidays are all about family and spending time with the people we love. If you're getting a gift for a new homeowner that is a cousin, child or friend, take your favorite picture of the whole family and blow it up so it can be hung on the wall. It's these little things that turn a house into a home around the holidays. 

New homes call for new property taxes and that is where we come in. Our holiday gift is our knowledge of the Long Island tax grievance process and we would love to put our gift under your tree this holiday season. To submit an application, visit our website or call 516-484-0654/ 631-484-0654. The deadline is quickly approaching and we don't want you to miss out on this opportunity! 

A Breakdown of the Grievance Process

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

If you've been living on Long Island for awhile, you're well aware that our property taxes are some of the highest in the entire country. While we live in one of the most beautiful and convenient locations on the planet, there is no reason to pay excessive property taxes. At P.T.R.C. Inc., we understand how the tax grievance process works and we can help you use it to your advantage. Are you interested in saving money on your property taxes? Well, here's how our tax grievance process can help: 

Step 1: The first thing you'll need to do is submit your grievance application to the experts at P.T.R.C. Inc. Within the coming days, you should receive confirmation that we received your application and that you're eligible to file the grievance application. 

Step 2: If you live in Suffolk County, our team would represent you in front of the Board of Assessment Review (BAR). For Nassau County residents, we would represent you in front of the Assessment Review Commission (ARC). 

Step 3: Based on their decision, we will either accept the reduction or proceed to Small Claims Assessment Review (SCAR). This is the only  way to obtain a reduction if we were denied at the board level. But don't worry, we have been very successful here! 

Important Notice: There is a $30 fee to purchase an index number that guarantees your case will be heard. 

Step 4: P.T.R.C. Inc. will purchase the index number and handle all the necessary paperwork to make sure your case is heard. Unfortunately, once your appeal is filed it could take several months for the Supreme Court to schedule a hearing. 

Step 5: We will be fully prepared for the hearing with all the necessary paperwork and a Comparable Market Analysis to help during the appeal process. 

Note: Once we have a successful case, you can receive your compensation in one of two ways: 

1. The reduction can be reflected on your tax bills in which case you would pay your taxes based on the lower assessed value that was agreed upon. 
2. The reduction can be reflected in the form of a refund check. Some municipalities will decide to combine these two methods and give you a lower assessed value along with a refund check. It all depends on the case.  

Step 6: Send in your application and get ready for next year's reductions! 

Still have questions about the grievance process and how we can help? To learn more, please visit our website or give us a call at (516) or (631) 484-0654. You can also reach out to us via email at info@ptrc.com! 

Home Buying Myths You Have to Stop Believing

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

Finally feeling ready to take on the responsibility of being a homeowner? If you've decided to move on from renting or are looking to move out of the house you grew up in, let us remind you that not everything you hear or read will be accurate. That said, it's super important to really do your research before making any major decisions!

To help you out, today we're debunking some of the most common myths that home buyers believe - don't fall into these traps!

Myth #1: Always go with a 30 year mortgage - it's the best option.
Sure your monthly payments are going to be lower when you opt for a 30 year mortgage, but choosing a loan with a longer lifespan can just result in you paying back more in the long run. While 30 year mortgages certainly aren't bad and are often chosen by homeowners, if you really want to be smart with your money and have the funds to take on a larger monthly payment, consider all options before making a decision.

Myth #2: You HAVE to put down 20% on a house.
Putting 20% down on a home will help you avoid PMI (private mortgage insurance), but there's no rule that says you MUST put down this much. In fact, many lenders will offer loans when you put as little as 5% down - it's you who just has to be prepared for the additional cost of PMI. Additionally, you can always see if you qualify for a government-backed loan that could only require 3.5% down.

Myth #3: The asking price is always non-negotiable.
If you don't ask, the answer will always be no. While some sellers will be less willing to negotiate than others, keep in mind that the amount you offer doesn't always have to be an exact match to the asking price. Especially if your home inspection brings back concerns, there's no reason why you can't try to come up with a better deal.

Myth #4: School districts aren't important if you don't have kids.
School districts always matter, even if you don't have kids currently and aren't planning to in the future - particularly for re-sale. If this is not going to be your forever home, you have to remember that future buyers could have kids or have plans to have kids, so you can bet that they'll be looking for a home in a neighborhood with great schools.

Myth #5: As long as you have enough for your down payment, you're good.
We wish this were the case, but it most definitely is not! In addition to your down payment, there are going to be closing costs that you may have to cover (unless the seller is super accommodating and takes care of them for you). Additionally, you should expect to pay taxes and fees for inspections, insurance and more.

Something else important that we want all homebuyers to remember is that the property taxes on a home's listing are typically a summary for the current year. When homes are sold assessed values tend to change, and since assessed values are considered when it comes to property taxes, there's a chance that YOUR property taxes will be different once you live in the home.

If you'll be moving into a home on Long Island, take a close look at your first property tax bill - if you suspect that you're paying too much, it's time to file for a tax grievance.

For more information about tax grievances and how our company can help, please call (516)/(631) 484-0654 or email info@ptrc.com.

Places You Must Visit on Long Island at Least Once

Long Island is a place like no other, and even if you've lived here for years, we bet there are still some hot spots you haven't checked out. On the other hand, if you haven't lived here for years or will just be visiting soon, then you have even more places to start looking into!

Below, learn a few of the attractions that we think make Long Island as great as it is, and if you haven't been to one or more yet, find some time in your schedule to get to them at least once when you can.

Sagamore Hill
Home to United States President, Theodore Roosevelt, Sagamore Hill is filled with such rich history that even people who aren't history buffs will love it. During your visit you can take a tour the home that Teddy Roosevelt lived in from 1885 until 1919, stroll along the paths and nature trails, and even host a picnic outdoors! 

Sag Harbor Whaling & Historical Museum
Open 7 days a week from 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, the Sag Harbor Whaling & Historical Museum is dedicated to preserving, promoting and interpreting the culture of Sag Harbor. Within the museum are collections of historical objects that have to do with the village's whaling history, as well as various other contemporary exhibits and events that also reflect the village's culture.

Nassau County Museum of Art
Art lover or not, you'll be amazed by all of the incredible works of art that are found the Nassau County Museum of Art! This museum has been ranked among some of the nation's largest, most important suburban art museums and is just a short ways away from New York City. While exhibitions do rotate, there is a permanent collection of more than 500 art pieces available for viewing throughout the year as well as a sculpture park for you to walk through.

Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium
Located in Centerport, New York, the Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium offers a ton to do - there's the planetarium itself, the mansion and the museum exhibits! Regardless of whether you take a guided tour, view one of the planetarium's shows or check out an exhibit, there's plenty to experience here and is well worth the trip!

Montauk Point State Park
It may be all the way out at the end of the island, but you'll be glad you traveled to it as soon as you get there. Here you can fish, hike, surf, wind surf, go paddle boarding and even hunt! The park is great for children too and is equipped with playground and picnic tables for groups who want to take a seat and have a bite. And of course, don't forget to check out the lighthouse while you're there!

Looking for more? Here are some additional attractions and activities, courtesy of USA Today!

P.T.R.C. Inc. has been helping Long Island homeowners reduce their property taxes since 1990. For information about how to file a tax grievance or how P.T.R.C. Inc. can help, please call (516)/(631) 484-0654 or email info@ptrc.com.

Ways to Celebrate Thanksgiving on Long Island

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

Thanksgiving is just one week away, and even if you have plans to have friends and family over for a Thanksgiving feast, there are still so many other fun things you can do on Long Island to celebrate. With that said, if you're looking for ways to enjoy the Thanksgiving weekend right here in town, we've got you covered:

What: 41st Annual Port Washington Thanksgiving Day 5 Mile Run (Turkey Trot)
Where: Manorhaven Park, Manorhaven Boulevard, Port Washington 11050
When: Thursday, November 24, 2016 at 8:30 AM
Details: Join community members on Thanksgiving morning and participate in a 5 mile run that benefits the Community Chest of Port Washington! This organization is committed to improving the lives of Port Washington residents, and by taking part in this run, you can contribute to their efforts!

What: Garden City's 2016 Turkey Trot
Where: St. Paul's School, 285 Stewart Avenue, Garden City 11530
When: Thursday, November 24, 2016, starting at 8:30 AM
Details: For everyone in Nassau County, the Garden City Turkey Trot features a fun run, a 5 mile race and a challenger division race, and all proceeds will directly benefit The Muscular Dystrophy Association, The Inn, and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. These events are scheduled to be held rain or shine, and pricing varies depending on the event you'd like to participate in.

What: Make Room for the Turkey Hike
Where: Caumsett State Park
When: Thursday, November 24, 2016 at 8:30 AM
Details: If you'd prefer to walk rather than run, then consider spending Thanksgiving morning participating in a 6 mile hike! The route will be hilly and of moderate intensity, and it will certainly help you burn some calories to prepare you for your Thanksgiving feast!

What: Westbrook to Connetquot Hike
Where: Westbrook Sports Complex
When: Sunday, November 27, 2016 at 10:30 AM
Details: After you've had time to digest from your Thanksgiving feast, grab your friends and family and participate in the Westbrook to Connetquot Hike! The hike will begin at Westbrook Sports Complex and will be a total of 4 miles long.

Looking for some more Long Island fun? Here you'll find additional events, as well as Thanksgiving dinners you can check out if you'd prefer to eat out!

All of us here at P.T.R.C. Inc. would like to wish you and your family a very, very happy Thanksgiving! We are so thankful for all of the homeowners who have put their trust in us to help with their property taxes and are looking forward to another successful tax grievance season!

P.T.R.C. Inc. has been specializing in reducing property taxes for Long Island homeowners since 1990. For more information or to download an application, please visit www.ptrc.com.

Nassau County Homeowners: Submit Your Application Today!

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

We're only about a month and a half away from the new year, and that means that the deadline for Nassau County homeowners to submit their grievance application is really just around the corner. While March 1st, 2017 seems like lightyears away, especially with so many holiday happenings to tend to before that, we cannot stress enough how important it is for homeowners to get their applications in not just on the deadline, but well before.

For those of you who are not familiar with the grievance process, in Nassau County, it can take anywhere from 18-24 months from start to finish. Although your main role in the grievance process is simply submitting an application, there's a lot more that takes place afterwards that can take quite a bit of time - let's break it down for you:

After we receive your application for your Nassau County home, we will represent you before the Assessment Review Commission (ARC). If they decide you are eligible for a reduction, we will accept, but if not, we will proceed to Small Claims Assessment Review (SCAR).

SCAR is the only way to obtain a reduction if we are denied at the board level, but the great news is that we have been very successful at this step! At this point an index number will need to be purchased to guarantee that your case will be heard - we'll take care of this for you. Once this is complete, the Supreme Court will schedule a hearing, but this is where a lot of time is eaten up - this part of the process can take up to several months since so many SCAR appeals are being filed at once.

When the time comes for your hearing, our team will appear on your behalf and present all of the evidence we've accumulated in an attempt to find you some savings!

While we cannot guarantee reductions, we've handled over 230,000 assessment challenges and have secured millions of dollars in refunds and reductions for our clients, so you know that you're in great hands when you choose to work with P.T.R.C. Inc.! You can find properties where we've saved near you here, and should your case not be successful this time around, we will not charge a fee - that said, you really have nothing to lose by submitting an application!

If you're ready to get started, visit our website to access the Nassau County applications. Should you have any questions, feel free to contact us by calling (516)/(631) 484-0654 or send an email to info@ptrc.com.

Reasons Why Your Property Taxes Keep Rising

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

As a homeowner you'll have both fixed and variable expenses - fixed meaning they'll stay the same month after month/year after year, and variable meaning they can change. And while you may assume that your larger expenses, such as your mortgage and your taxes, will stay the same throughout your time in your house, your property taxes (unfortunately) are something that can continue to change.

Now we know what you're thinking - why is it that property taxes can keep rising every year? Truth is, there are a lot of factors that go into determining how much you pay in property taxes, and if those factors change, your property taxes will naturally change too. Let's take a look at some of the most common reasons:

1. You've made home improvements. Many people complete home improvement projects to increase the value of their home, but this in turn causes property taxes to rise too. That's because making changes will directly effect the outcome of your next property assessment, and property assessments are a part of the property tax equation!
2. Your government depends on it. Property taxes are a huge source of government funding, so if your county or city finds itself in need, raising your property taxes is often the solution. 
3. Your schools depend on it. Just like your local government depends on your property taxes, so does your school districts and community colleges. When schools require more funding for their operational needs, it's not uncommon for your property taxes to change.
4. Property values are rising. If in general, your neighborhood or community is starting to see a rise in property values, it's completely normal for your property taxes to change (though we know you may not always welcome the increase). And what causes property values to rise in neighborhoods and communities? A big factor is if there are neighborhood improvements or new homes being built.

With all that said, the next time you receive a property tax bill and notice that it's higher than the last one, don't be surprised - property taxes can continue to change year after year. But, the good news is that if your property taxes do keep rising, you may be able to do something about it by filing for a tax grievance, and we can help!

To learn more about tax grievances and what the P.T.R.C. Inc. team can do for you, please click here or call (516)/(631) 484-0654. Emails can also be sent to info@ptrc.com.

Common Mistakes That Hurt Homebuyers

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

With a new year right around the corner, you may be making big plans for what you'd like to accomplish in the months that follow - is one of those plans to buy a home? Whether it'll be your first home, your second home or maybe your third, we want to remind you how important it is to steer clear of certain mistakes if you want the experience to be as positive as possible. So, with that said, let's take a look at some of the most common that hurt homebuyers so you know what to avoid:

1. Getting emotionally attached.
Many people fall in love with the first house they see, but that doesn't mean it's the right house. By making a promise to yourself to not get too emotionally attached,  you can avoid a lot of disappointment that may occur if things don't work out.

2. Trying to do it all yourself.
It's one thing to go to open houses and search around on the web, but at the end of the day, working with a professional is always recommended! After all, they're highly trained in what they do, so they can answer any questions you have and guide you in the direction that is best for you.

3. Forgetting about closing costs.
Your down payment is not the only payment you'll make before you move into your new home - there are closing costs to prepare for too. Many times, though, homeowners forget about this detail, and thus budget for all of their money to go towards the down payment - this, however, can lead to some pretty big issues when it comes time to address closing costs!

4. Not knowing your credit score.
Your credit score plays a big role in things such as what loans you'll be eligible for, and not having any idea of what yours is can put you in a pretty sticky situation. Before you even begin to look at houses, it's a good idea to review your score so that you can gauge what type of loans you'll be approved for.

5. Failing to get pre-approved.
Even when you know what you can afford, it's always a good idea to get pre-approved before starting to look and make offers. This is important because it shows the sellers just how serious you are, and it also shows that you truly can afford what they're asking/what you're offering!

Once a deal has been made and you're all settled in to your new home, we have another mistake that we certainly don't want you to make - not filing for a tax grievance. If you think you're overpaying in property taxes, there's a good chance that you are, and filing for a tax grievance can let you know if you're eligible for any reductions and refunds! Remember, the worst you can be told is no.

For those of you living on Long Island, we would be happy to help you with the grievance process. To learn more, visit us at www.ptrc.com or give us a call at (516)/(631) 484-0654; emails can also be sent to info@ptrc.com.

Important Information for Nassau County Property Owners

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

Attention all Nassau County property owners! Do you have questions about your property's taxes and assessments or what you can do moving forward if you don't agree with your current tax bill? If so, you've come to the right place - below, with help from nassaucountyny.gov, we're covering a few frequently asked questions that we think will help you.

Question 1: Where can you go to find your property's assessment?
Answer: Getting this information is simple - it's available on the Department of Assessment's website.

Question 2: How often are properties assessed?
Answer: A property assessment takes place each year. According to Nassau County's website, new tentative assessments are typically published on the first business day in January.

Question 3: When do the new assessments affect the tax bills?
Answer: The assessments that are announced in January will become final on the first business day in April in the following year. These assessments are also used for the school tax bills that come out in October of that year, as well as for the general tax bills that are distributed in January of the next year.

Question 4: What factors affect how much you pay?
Answer: There are a few factors that go into your tax bills. First, there's the tax class - this determines which rates will be applied to your property's taxable assessed value. Then, the budgets that are put in place by your town, school district, special districts, and the County are all considered as well.

Question 5: If a notice is not received, is it okay to assume that my assessment remains the same?
Answer: No - truth is, almost all assessments will change year over year. If you do not receive anything, it is recommended that you look up your assessment every January or February, which can be done here. Remember, if you fail to receive a notice it does not extend your time to file for an appeal, so you should always do some research on your own.

Question 6: What happens if I live in an incorporated village?
Answer: Incorporated villages are usually treated a bit differently, and the villages typically determine their own assessments for village taxes. That said, the best person to contact for more information would be your village assessor or clerk.

Question 7: Can you fight your property taxes?
Answer: Yes! And the team here at P.T.R.C Inc. wants to help you do so!

The grievance deadline for Nassau County property owners is March 1, 2017, so if you're looking to challenge your property taxes, it's time to send in your application! Once you submit an application to us we'll take care of the rest on your behalf, and since we only charge a fee for successful cases, if your case is not successful, you have nothing to lose!

For more information, please give us a call at (516) 484-0654 or email info@ptrc.com.

A Look at 2017: Predicted Home Buying Trends

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

With 2017 within reach, now is the time when many people start thinking about what they'd like to do next year - home improvement projects, New Year's Resolutions, vacations, you know how it goes. But with the start of a new year also comes various new trends, and wouldn't it be nice to head into January already knowing what some of them are so that you're ahead of the game? We think so, which is why today, we're discussing what experts expect to see in the real estate world.

Realtor.com recently reported that in 2017, more than half of all the homes bought are going to be bought by first-time home buyers - this was determined through a survey conducted by realtor.com. But they also explain that it won't just be any first-time home buyers taking over the market - rather, it's mostly going to be millennials, which is a total change from this year (according to their findings, only 33% of people planning to buy homes in 2016 were first-time buyers, but in 2017, 52% of buyers are expected to be first-timers).

So what does this mean for the housing market?

First and foremost, there's going to be a lot more competition when it comes to starter homes in the suburbs. That said, it may be worth it to consider buying in the winter in order to dodge the higher prices and bidding wars that may occur at other times of the year when millennial buyers are coming into the market in full force.

Additional Trends

Now that you're more familiar with who is going to be buying, let's touch on what they're going to be looking for. According to realtor.com, millennial buyers are going to be looking for a few things: privacy, safety, and overall more space. Most millennials prefer single-family homes to meet these needs, and furthermore, their desired location is in the suburbs. So, if you live in the suburbs or near the suburbs now, don't be surprised if you see an influx of millennial buyers coming your way next year!

For more details, check out the full article by realtor.com here.

If you're a first-time buyer that's planning to dive into the Long Island housing market in 2017, when it comes time to sit down and look at your property taxes, keep P.T.R.C. Inc. in mind. Should you feel that your property tax bill is too high, we can help you in your quest for a reduction for future tax years.

To learn more about what we do and how we can help, please visit www.ptrc.com or call (516)/(631) 484-0654 today.

Reminder! Tax Grievance Applications Are Available Now!

Property Tax Reduction Consultants

125 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 500 
Jericho, NY 11753

(516) 484-0654 or (631) 484-0654

In case you haven't heard, applications for tax grievances are NOW available! The current applications are for the 2018/2019 tax year, and if you're interested in filing, you shouldn't delay submitting your application for any longer!

The deadlines for these applications are as follows:

March 1, 2017: Nassau County

May 16, 2017: Suffolk County

Submitting an application is easy, and we have everything you need right on our website! You can either sign online or email, fax or mail your completed application right to us. Once we receive it, we'll send you a confirmation to let you know that you've met the deadline and that you are eligible to file.

A few reminders:

In Nassau County, the grievance process can take anywhere from 18-24 months, and in Suffolk County, it can take anywhere from 12-18 months. For this reason alone, it is so imperative that you get your application in on time if you're hoping to see a change in your property taxes doing the 2018/2019 tax year.

Additionally, don't forget that when you work with P.T.R.C. Inc., we only charge a fee for successful cases, and we do not charge a fee to be qualified. It's as simple as this - no reduction = no fee. If your case is successful and a reduction is warranted, our fee is 50% of the property tax reduction payable after official notification of the tax reduction. 

Note: if a SCAR petition needs to be filed, a $30 court filing fee may also apply. Additionally, if your reduction is for a Suffolk County property, a $75 CMA fee applies unless you provide us with a recent certified appraisal.

The P.T.R.C. Inc. team has been specializing in reducing property taxes for homeowners since 1990, and we'd love for you to be the homeowner we help next.

If you're ready to file, just head on over to www.ptrc.com to download your application. Should you have any questions, feel free to contact us at (516)/(631) 484-0654 or email info@ptrc.com.